9 Blog - Charisma Communications

Why a Blog


Starting a blog has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made. It’s a platform where I can share my thoughts, ideas, and experiences with a wider audience. Here are some reasons why I decided to create this blog:



Beyond Assumptions: You Don't Know What It's Like

Post #0005


Some people think they know everything about disabilities. Throughout my life, I've attended many forums and conferences on disability issues, and often, a dignitary is invited to give the opening remarks. One instance stands out: a dignitary began by saying, "I know what it’s like to have a disability because my child has one." I was taken aback, and many others around me felt the same. Someone nearby leaned over and whispered, "How would he know? He’s not the one living with the disability."


It's always intriguing when someone claims to fully understand a disability they've never experienced. Every disability affects individuals in unique ways, and even doctors are continually learning more each day. So, when someone says, "I know what it's like" or claims to know everything, they really don’t. It makes you wonder how a doctor might react when they hear that.


Using my disability as an example—I'm a Thalidomide survivor. When people first see me, they might think, "Oh, he has short arms," or some may even say, "No arms." But that’s only part of it—I also have internal birth defects. You can't assume you know everything, which is why it's essential to ask questions or do some research. Don’t assume you understand the whole story.




Temi The Personal Robot

Post #0004


The Temi Personal Robot can be an invaluable tool for assisting people with disabilities, offering a range of features designed to enhance accessibility, independence, and safety. Here’s how Temi can help: 

  1. Mobility Assistance

    2. • Autonomous Navigation: Temi can move autonomously to various locations within a home or office, allowing people with mobility impairments to control the robot remotely and bring items or assist with tasks without needing to move themselves.

    • Voice-Activated Movement: Individuals can command Temi to navigate to specific locations via voice commands, reducing the need for physical movement.

  2. Communication Aid

    3. • Telepresence: Temi allows for remote communication through video calls, enabling people with disabilities to stay connected with family, friends, and healthcare providers. This is especially helpful for those who have difficulty using traditional communication devices.

    • Voice Commands: The robot can be fully operated via voice commands, making it accessible to individuals with limited use of their hands.

  3. Daily Task Management

    4. • Reminders and Notifications: Temi can set reminders for medications, appointments, or daily activities, helping users manage their schedules independently.

    • Home Automation Control: It can control smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, and door locks, allowing users to manage their environment without physical effort.

  4. Companionship and Emotional Support

    5. • Interactive Features: Temi can engage in basic conversations and play media, offering companionship to individuals who may feel isolated due to their disability.

    • Entertainment and Education: It can play music, videos, and educational content, providing both entertainment and mental stimulation.

  5. Physical Assistance

    6. • Object Transport: Temi can carry small items and deliver them to users, reducing the need for individuals with mobility issues to get up frequently.


    • Assistance in Emergencies: In case of an emergency, Temi can be programmed to contact emergency services or family members, providing immediate assistance.


  6. Accessibility Enhancements

    7. • Customizable Features: Temi’s software can be customized to better suit the specific needs of individuals with various disabilities, such as adjusting the sensitivity of voice commands or integrating with specialized assistive devices. Temi’s software can be customized to better suit the specific needs of individuals with various disabilities, such as adjusting the sensitivity of voice commands or integrating with specialized assistive devices.


    • Visual and Hearing Support: Temi can display large, clear text on its screen and use visual cues or vibrations to assist individuals with hearing or vision impairments.Temi can display large, clear text on its screen and use visual cues or vibrations to assist individuals with hearing or vision impairments.


  7. Health Monitoring

    8. • Health and Fitness Reminders: Temi can remind users to take medication, stay hydrated, or perform specific exercises, which is especially useful for individuals with chronic conditions or those undergoing rehabilitation.


    • Remote Monitoring: Healthcare providers or family members can remotely monitor the user's well-being via Temi's camera and communication features.


  8. Educational Support

    9. • Learning Assistance: For individuals with learning disabilities, Temi can provide customized educational content, including interactive lessons or games that cater to their specific learning needs.


    By integrating these features, Temi Personal Robot can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, offering them greater independence, safety, and connectivity.




Innovating from the Start: A Lifelong Passion for Technology

Post #0003


From as far back as I can remember, I've always had a passion for technology. Even on the farm, I was constantly building things to make life easier, though I didn’t realize at the time that what I was creating was considered technology. In the mid-70s, the concept of accessible technology wasn't even on my radar.

The first thing I ever created was a simple scoop to help me feed the chickens. Since I couldn’t reach into the four-foot-tall grain barrel, I improvised by taking a three-inch diameter wooden pole and an old Planters peanut tin. I punched a hole in the side of the tin, drove a bolt through it, and attached it to the top of the pole. Looking back now, I realize that even something as simple as that is a form of technology.

Technology has advanced tremendously. In fact, there are now devices that allow non-verbal individuals to communicate with others. Powered chairs exist that can do things beyond what I could have ever imagined. The list of innovations just goes on and on.

Due to the advancements in accessible technology, I could discuss this topic endlessly, making this post much too long to read. Instead, I invite you to watch the video below. It showcases a Smart Suite and demonstrates how it enables independent living.



1. Share my Knowledge

I believe that knowledge is most valuable when shared. Whether it’s insights from lessons learned from personal experiences, or interesting facts about my hobbies, I love the idea of helping others by sharing what I know.

2. Connecting with Like-minded Individuals

A blog is a great way to connect with people who share similar interests. It allows me to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, and build a community of like-minded individuals.

3. Inspiring and Motivating Others

I hope that by sharing my stories and insights, I can inspire and motivate others. Whether it’s overcoming challenges, pursuing dreams, or simply finding joy in everyday moments, I aim to provide content that resonates with and uplifts my readers.



The Evolution of Disability Terminology

Post #0002


In Canada, the shift away from using the term "handicap" in favor of "disability" began in the late 20th century, particularly from the 1980s onwards, paralleling trends in the United States and other Western countries.

Key Factors in Canada:

  1. Disability Rights Movements: Canadian disability rights activists played a significant role in advocating for the use of more respectful and accurate language. The push for change was part of a broader movement to recognize the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.

  2. Legislative and Policy Changes: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, enacted in 1982, and subsequent human rights legislation, including the Canadian Human Rights Act, used the term "disability" rather than "handicap." These changes reflected a growing understanding of the social model of disability, which emphasizes that disability arises from the interaction between individuals and societal barriers, rather than being an intrinsic limitation.

  3. Government and Institutional Language: By the 1990s, Canadian government documents, educational materials, and public discourse had largely transitioned to using "disability" instead of "handicap." This shift was also reflected in the language used by organizations, media, and the general public.

  4. Public Awareness and Education: As awareness grew about the impact of language on perceptions of disability, the term "handicap" became less common, with "disability" and "people with disabilities" being recognized as more appropriate and respectful terms.

Current Usage:

Today, the term "handicap" is generally considered outdated and is rarely used in official or public contexts in Canada. However, it may still persist in certain specific phrases (e.g., "handicap parking"), though even these are gradually being updated to reflect more current language. Its now known as Accessible Parking.

In summary, the shift away from "handicap" in Canada primarily took place from the 1980s to the 1990s, driven by advocacy, legislative changes, and evolving public attitudes.



The accessability of winnipeg

Post #0001


When it comes to accessibility in Winnipeg, I find it very important. Accessibility isn’t just about curb cuts and audible street crossings; it also means ensuring everyone can access public places. For example, proper wayfinding is crucial. I’d like to hear from others: in the past four to five years, have you noticed any improvements? Share your thoughts.



Comments


In recent years, there has been a troubling decline in the enforcement of handicapped parking regulations at shopping malls, leading to a significant increase in violations. Many individuals have noticed a rise in the misuse of handicapped parking spaces, often attributed to the use of fraudulent permits or a blatant disregard for proper display. The ease with which fake permits can be acquired, coupled with a lack of stringent enforcement, has exacerbated this issue.

At shopping malls, where accessibility is crucial for those with mobility challenges, the problem is particularly pronounced. Spaces designated for handicapped parking are often occupied by vehicles without valid permits, leaving those who genuinely need them struggling to find adequate parking. This not only inconveniences individuals with disabilities but also undermines the purpose of these regulations, which are designed to ensure equitable access.

The situation is further aggravated by inconsistent enforcement practices. Many malls have inadequate measures in place to monitor and address these violations, leading to a culture of impunity among those who exploit or ignore the rules. Addressing this issue requires a renewed commitment to enforcing parking regulations, including stricter checks for permit validity and increased penalties for misuse. Only with a concerted effort to uphold these standards can we hope to restore fairness and accessibility to handicapped parking spaces.

Allen Christopher


I think Winnipeg is better than most but they do a TERRIBLE job of making play grounds accessible for wheelchair users. They think oh we have one ramp that a kid can access a quarter of the structure and it’s accessible. (If they even do that!) guess what that gravel and ledge holding the gravel in means my daughter can not play with others. She gets to watch.

Anne Marie Fontaine


Totally agree. I have not noticed significant accessibility improvements in Winnipeg. That said, whenever I have visited other countries I have been all too aware of their lack of accessibility and way finding.

Mireille Lamontagne